Inspection report of Western Isles Hospital

The inspection visit took place from 3–4 November 2015.

Before the inspection, there was a review of NHS Western Isles’ self-assessment system and information gathered about the hospital from other sources.

This included Scotland’s Patient Experience Programme and other data that relates to the care of older people.

Inspectors also carried out an NHS board visit to NHS Western Isles on Friday 21 November 2014.

Based on the review of this information the inspection concentrated on the following outcomes:

treating people with compassion, dignity and respect

screening and initial assessment

person-centred care planning

safe and effective care, and

managing the return home.

Speaking of the report, Jacqui Macrae, Head of Quality of Care for Healthcare Improvement Scotland, said: “During this inspection visit, we noted that patients appeared comfortable and well cared for.

“Patient and carer comments to the inspection team were complimentary, stating that staff were friendly and approachable.

“We also observed patients being treated with dignity and respect on the wards visited and good team working was observed in all the wards we visited.

“However, we found that further improvement is required in certain areas. NHS Western Isles must ensure full and accurate completion of documentation and initial assessments must be carried out within national standard recommended timescales, and ensure a more co-ordinated approach to mealtimes.

“This inspection resulted in two areas of good practice and 14 areas for improvement which NHS Western Isles must address as a matter of priority.”

The full inspection report and an improvement action plan developed by NHS Western Isles to address the identified issues is available to view: at